A hospital room became a commencement ceremony celebration hall for one Mission High School (MHS) senior the morning of Monday, May 1. Officials at Rio Grande Regional Medical Center helped facilitate the small gathering in the room for Natalie Quintanilla. Quintanilla was joined by family, district teachers, the MHS principal, and superintendent of schools, and her nurses and doctors.
With the traditional Pomp and Circumstance playing in the background, Quintanilla became the first member of the MHS class of 2017 to receive a diploma. The diploma was presented by Edilberto Flores, principal. Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) Superintendent, Dr. Ricardo López officially certified her as having completed all requirements for graduation.
The special graduation presentation was arranged due to health issues that would not permit Quintanilla to attend the MHS commencement ceremonies on June 2.
Pictured are: Natalie Quintanilla being shown a newly designed diploma by Principal Edilberto Flores; Dr. Lopez officially certifying her as a graduate; and Natalie with some family, medical staff, and district staff.